The Blueprint Appoints Debra Sercy as Managing Partner to Lead US Expansion

International executive search firm, The Blueprint, has appointed Debra Sercy as managing partner to lead its expansion in the US market.

The Blueprint specialises in uncovering and placing high-level senior leadership talent in the top creative, health and integrated agencies around the world. Established in the UK in 2006 by founder Gareth Moss, The Blueprint has also expanded its presence in the APAC region recently, following a strategic alliance with Jean-Michel Wu. Debra’s appointment signals its next phase of growth.

Debra, who most recently held the role of EVP, managing partner at executive search firm, Grace Blue, was instrumental in establishing its presence in North America and set it up for a successful acquisition in January 2024. Speaking exclusively with LBB, Debra says, “This opportunity to help guide another UK business as they expand into the US (my third consecutive UK company in the past 18 years!) fits the brief at a time when both US-based talent and clients need it most.”

“Debra is a rare talent—she brings deep expertise in executive search, a proven track record of building businesses, and an instinct for identifying leaders who can truly transform organisations,” adds founder Gareth Moss. “Beyond that, she shares The Blueprint’s belief that exceptional leadership is about modernity, inclusivity, and impact. Her experience spanning agencies, brands, and in-house teams makes her the perfect partner to drive our US expansion and in-house agency focus.”

With over 12 years of experience in managing global C-suite level and senior marketing and in-house agency searches, Debra has worked with an array of network and independent agencies, media owners and global consumer brands including Amazon, LEGO, Kohler and American Express. Reflecting on this, Debra adds, “During my time in executive search, I’ve recognised a great need for connecting transformative, agile, culture-creating leaders to brilliant and brave agencies and brands that are adapting to the future.”

Taking on the newly created role of managing partner, Debra is tasked with deepening The Blueprint’s relationships with brands, agencies and creative companies in the US, whilst also spearheading a new focus on in-house agencies.

Identifying in-house agencies as a rapidly growing vertical demanding innovative, transformational leaders who blend creative, strategic and commercial insight, The Blueprint strives to “set the benchmark for placing world-class talent in in-house environments, ensuring these teams drive business impact and creative excellence,” Gareth adds.

Commenting further on her new role, Debra shared her excitement for the task ahead. “I’m an entrepreneur in my soul. I’ve proven I’m good at building a profitable business that makes a real impact on this crazy marketing and creative industry I still love. It’s not often you have the chance to do it again—taking what you’ve learned and doing it better with partners who share your ambition. This is going to be great fun.”